Chief Minister’s Visit to Senapati Marks Push for Peace, Unity and Development

Aseem Bhakta Singh, KalimNews, Imphal, Apr 10, 2026 : In a significant step towards restoring normalcy in the state, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh undertook his maiden road visit to Senapati district via Kangpokpi after assuming office, marking his first such journey in nearly three years since May 3, 2023. The visit was widely seen as an effort to rebuild confidence and strengthen connections across regions affected by recent unrest.

The Chief Minister attended a reception ceremony organised by the Senapati District Frontal Organisations. He was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho and MLAs Awangbow Newmai, Tongbram Robindro Singh and J. Kumo Sha.

The programme began on a sombre note with a prayer led by Fr. Dr. William Nepuni, Principal of St. Xavier College, Maram Khunou, in honour of two young lives lost in the recent Tronglaobi blast in Bishnupur district. A one-minute silence was observed in memory of the children, initiated by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho.

Highlighting the importance of collective efforts in restoring peace, the Chief Minister praised civil society organisations from Senapati, Mao and Kangpokpi for their unwavering support. He noted that his ability to travel by road to Senapati was made possible due to their cooperation and commitment to stability in the region.

The people of Senapati accorded him a warm welcome at the Multipurpose Hall in the district headquarters. The reception was led by the Naga People’s Organisation, Senapati District Women’s Association, Senapati District Students’ Association, along with other civil society organisations and tribal representatives.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of balanced and inclusive development across Manipur. He emphasised that progress in the state would only be possible when all districts advance alongside the capital, Imphal. He further noted that equitable growth and improved per capita income would foster mutual understanding and harmony among diverse communities.

“The territorial integrity of Manipur has been safeguarding by the 36 different communities inhabited in the State since time immemoria. Thus, Manipur is considered a Mini India,” he added.

“First we are Indian and then we are Manipuri” he says, continuing that we all should work together as Manipuri and take our state to a new height of development.

Recalling the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Chief Minister said that India’s development is closely linked to the progress of the Northeast. He also mentioned that the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) was established during Vajpayee’s tenure.

Responding to a memorandum submitted by the Naga People’s Organisation seeking the establishment of a medical college in Senapati, the Chief Minister assured that the proposal would be placed before the next State Cabinet meeting.

He also addressed key local concerns, directing Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who holds the Public Health Engineering portfolio, to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for improving the district’s sewerage system. Regarding the relocation of the congested Senapati Police Station, he assured that the matter would be examined and necessary steps taken.

On the proposal for developing the Barak Festival site, the Chief Minister stated that consultations would be held with the Tourism Department and relevant stakeholders to finalise plans.

As part of the visit, several development projects were inaugurated and launched. These included the Multi-Level Parking Inter-State and District Agricultural and Economic Transportation Hub at Senapati Bazar, ten Multi-Purpose Centres under PM-JANMAN in PVTG areas of the Maram tribe, a PHSC building at Pudanamei, and a 3D Digital Dental Laboratory under PM-DeVine.

Foundation stones were also laid for multiple infrastructure projects, including 69 Anganwadi centre buildings, floodlighting at Senapati Public Turf Ground, additional classrooms in 15 ADC schools, 30 toilets, 22 water reservoirs, 10 community halls, five wayside amenities and solid waste management infrastructure across 14 locations and villages.

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, in his address, commended the residents of Senapati, comprising the Mao, Maram, Poumai, Thangal and Zeliangrong tribes, for their strong tradition of peace and cooperation.

The event also featured cultural performances, including a folk presentation by Mom’s In Touch and special songs by local artists, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The programme was attended by senior civil and police officials, members of the district administration, civil society organisations, village leaders, teachers and students, underscoring broad community participation in the event.